Can Dogs Eat Biscuits? A Complete Guide for Pet Parents

We’ve all been there: You’re enjoying a cozy afternoon with a cup of coffee and a sleeve of your favorite biscuits when your dog trots over, tail wagging, nose twitching, and those irresistible puppy eyes locked on your snack. “Just one bite?” they seem to beg. It’s a heartwarming moment, but it also sparks a critical question: Can dogs eat biscuits?

The short answer is… it depends. Not all biscuits are created equal, and while some are safe (and even beneficial) for your pup, others could pose serious health risks. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know—from the benefits of dog-friendly biscuits to the hidden dangers in human snacks, plus tips for keeping your furry friend happy and healthy.

Table of Contents

1. Can Dogs Eat Biscuits? The Short Answer
2. The Benefits of Dog-Safe Biscuits
3. The Risks of Feeding Biscuits to Dogs
4. How Much Biscuit Is Safe for Your Dog?
5. Healthier Alternatives to Biscuits
6. FAQ: Common Questions About Dogs and Biscuits
7. Conclusion: Moderation is Key

Can Dogs Eat Biscuits? The Short Answer

Yes, dogs can eat biscuits—but not all biscuits are safe. The critical distinction is between dog-specific biscuits (formulated for canine nutrition) and human biscuits (made for people, often with ingredients that harm dogs).

Dog biscuits, like those sold as training treats or “dog cookies,” are designed to complement your pup’s diet. They’re typically low in sugar, free of toxic additives, and packed with nutrients dogs need. Human biscuits, on the other hand, often contain high sugar, salt, artificial flavors, or even toxic ingredients (like chocolate, raisins, or xylitol).

So, while sharing a bite of your chocolate chip cookie or buttery shortbread might seem harmless, it could put your dog’s health at risk. Stick to dog-safe options, and always read the label!

The Benefits of Dog-Safe Biscuits

When chosen wisely, dog biscuits can be more than just a tasty snack—they can support your pup’s health and happiness. Here’s how:

1. Nutrient-Rich Ingredients

Quality dog biscuits are formulated with ingredients that boost your dog’s diet. Look for options with:

• Protein: From chicken, salmon, or eggs, which support muscle growth and energy.
• Healthy Fats: Like omega-3s (from fish oil) or flaxseed, which promote a shiny coat and skin health.
• Vitamins & Minerals: B vitamins (for energy), vitamin E (antioxidant), and zinc (immune support) are common additions.

2. Fiber for Digestive Health

Many dog biscuits include fiber-rich ingredients like oats, sweet potatoes, or pumpkin. Fiber helps regulate digestion, prevents constipation, and keeps your dog feeling full (which is great for weight management).

3. Potassium for Heart & Muscle Function

Ingredients like bananas, sweet potatoes, or spinach (found in some premium biscuits) are rich in potassium. This mineral supports heart health, muscle contraction, and fluid balance—key for active dogs!

4. Mental Stimulation & Training Rewards

Biscuits make excellent training treats. The act of earning a biscuit through commands like “sit” or “stay” provides mental stimulation, strengthens your bond, and reinforces good behavior.

The Risks of Feeding Biscuits to Dogs

Not all biscuits are created equal, and even some “dog-friendly” options can cause harm if overfed or poorly made. Here are the top risks to watch for:

1. Excess Sugar & Empty Calories

Human biscuits (think: cookies, pastries, or even some crackers) are loaded with sugar. Dogs don’t need sugar in their diet, and too much can lead to:

• Obesity: Extra calories from sugar quickly add up, increasing the risk of joint pain, diabetes, and heart disease.
• Dental Issues: Sugar feeds harmful bacteria in your dog’s mouth, causing plaque, tartar, and cavities.
• Energy Spikes & Crashes: Just like in humans, sugar can make dogs hyperactive, followed by lethargy.

2. Toxic Ingredients

Some human biscuits contain ingredients that are poisonous to dogs. Watch for:

• Xylitol: A sugar substitute found in “sugar-free” biscuits, gum, and candy. Even small amounts can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia) or liver failure.
• Chocolate: Chocolate contains theobromine, which dogs can’t metabolize. Dark chocolate is the most toxic, but even milk chocolate can cause vomiting, seizures, or death.
• Raisins/Grapes: These are linked to kidney failure in dogs, even in small doses.
• Macadamia Nuts: Found in some cookies, these can cause weakness, vomiting, and hyperthermia.

3. Stomach Upset

Rich, fatty, or unfamiliar ingredients (like butter, cream, or wheat in human biscuits) can upset your dog’s stomach. Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, or gas—especially in dogs with sensitive tummies or food allergies.

4. Choking Hazards

Small, hard, or crumbly biscuits pose a choking risk, especially for tiny dogs (e.g., Chihuahuas) or those who gulp food. Avoid giving your dog large biscuits unless you break them into small pieces.

How Much Biscuit Is Safe for Your Dog?

The golden rule: Treats (including biscuits) should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. This ensures they’re getting the nutrients they need from their regular food, not just snacks.

To calculate how many biscuits are safe:

1. Check your dog’s daily calorie needs (use a pet calorie calculator or ask your vet).
2. Aim for treats to be 10% of that total. For example, a 30-pound dog eating 700 calories/day can have ~70 calories from treats.
3. Read the biscuit label for calories per treat. If a dog biscuit has 20 calories, that’s 3-4 biscuits max per day.

General Guidelines by Dog Size:

• Small dogs (5–20 lbs): 1–2 small dog biscuits/day (e.g., 1–2 Milk-Bone Mini’s).
• Medium dogs (20–50 lbs): 2–3 medium biscuits/day.
• Large dogs (50+ lbs): 3–4 large biscuits/day.

Pro Tip: Avoid “free feeding” biscuits. Instead, use them as rewards during training or as occasional snacks. Always opt for dog-specific biscuits, and check the ingredient list for red flags (sugar, xylitol, chocolate, etc.).

Healthier Alternatives to Biscuits

If you’re looking to spoil your dog without the risks of store-bought or human biscuits, try these healthier alternatives:

1. Dog-Specific Treats with Clean Ingredients

Look for brands that prioritize natural, whole foods. Examples include:

• Blue Buffalo Wilderness Trail Treats: Made with real meat (no chicken by-product meal) and no artificial preservatives.
• Zuke’s Mini Naturals: Small, low-calorie training treats with ingredients like salmon or peanut butter.
• Wellness Soft Puppy Bites: Gentle on sensitive tummies, with DHA for brain development (great for puppies).

2. Homemade Dog Biscuits

Whip up a batch of treats using dog-safe ingredients! Try this simple recipe:
Sweet Potato & Peanut Butter Biscuits

• 1 cup mashed sweet potato (cooked, no added sugar)
• 2 tbsp xylitol-free peanut butter
• 1 cup whole wheat flour (or oat flour for grain-free)
• 1 egg (binds ingredients)
• Mix, roll into small balls, bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes. Store in the fridge for up to a week.

3. Fresh, Dog-Safe Fruits & Veggies

Many fruits and veggies are low-calorie, nutrient-dense, and delicious to dogs. Try:

• Sweet potato slices (baked for a chewy treat).
• Carrot sticks (crunchy and great for dental health).
• Blueberries (antioxidant-rich and low in sugar).
• Banana slices (a potassium boost—feed sparingly due to natural sugar).

FAQ: Common Questions About Dogs and Biscuits

Q: Can dogs eat chocolate biscuits?

A: No! Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs. Even a small chocolate biscuit can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or seizures. Call your vet immediately if your dog eats chocolate.

Q: Are plain crackers (like saltines) safe for dogs?

A: In tiny amounts, maybe—but they’re not healthy. Crackers are high in salt and empty calories, and some (like those with onion powder) can be harmful. Stick to dog-specific treats instead.

Q: Can puppies eat biscuits?

A: Yes, but choose puppy-specific biscuits. Puppies have different nutritional needs (more protein, DHA for brain development). Avoid adult dog biscuits, which may be too hard for their tiny teeth.

Q: My dog ate a whole packet of biscuits—what should I do?

A: Monitor for symptoms and call your vet. If the biscuits were human ones with sugar/xylitol, or if your dog is vomiting, lethargic, or has diarrhea, seek emergency care. For dog biscuits, overeating may cause stomach upset, but it’s rarely life-threatening.

Q: Are “low-sugar” human biscuits safe for dogs?

A: Not necessarily. Even low-sugar human biscuits may contain xylitol (a toxic sweetener) or other additives. Always check the label for xylitol, chocolate, raisins, or artificial flavors.

Conclusion: Moderation is Key

So, can dogs eat biscuits? Absolutely—but with caution. Dog-specific biscuits, fed in moderation, can be a healthy, tasty addition to your pup’s routine. Human biscuits, however, often contain sugar, toxic ingredients, or empty calories that do more harm than good.

The next time your dog begs for a bite, reach for a dog-safe treat instead. And when in doubt, consult your vet—they can help you choose the best biscuits (or alternatives) based on your dog’s age, size, and health needs.

After all, a happy dog is a healthy dog—and a few well-chosen biscuits (or sweet potato slices!) are a great way to show them love.

Woof to that!

References

• American Kennel Club (AKC). “Can Dogs Eat Cookies?”
• ASPCA. “People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets.”
• PetMD. “The 10% Rule for Dog Treats.”
• Veterinary Centers of America (VCA). “Xylitol Toxicity in Dogs.”